Even though Im gradually raising my power, Rays growth is so incredible I have to up it a level after each strike.

His swords so sharp and crisp. Hes a natural genius with the sword.

I could end this now by putting in so much power that Rays growth couldnt keep up but I want to see how strong this man will become.

You should come quickly to the heights I dwell in. Dont give up on the way.

Ill be troubled if you expect that much.

10 strikes

20 strikes

Gradually our swordsmanship is approaching that of the age of myths.

If our blades cross the earth shakes and if the blow is deflected the trees are blown away from the force.

We stood in the centre of a typhoon of force where everything around us was mown down by our sword pressure.

Kyaaaaaaaaaaa!!

Whats this!? Whats with this natural disaster!?

Whawait Arnos. What are you doing!? A mountain just vanished!

The rivers dried up.

Earthquakes are still happening.

Screams and pandemonium came through <Liikus> but I answered them lightly.

Just a bit of intense swordplay.

Im sorry. Can you endure it a bit more? (Ray)

Once again Ray and I cross swords.

The plants and even roots are now blown away. The whole region is turning into an empty wasteland.

Its not really an issue though. The soil of the demon tree forest is full of magic. No matter how much you go wild it will be restored in one night. Basically, we can go full power as much as we want.

You look happy Arnos-kun.

I am. Its been a long time since Ive used this much power. Even though I exercise my frustration still builds up.

Again our blades clash and the tornado weve created blows away all the clouds.

The look on your face is the same as mine.

Because this is the first time Ive been able to cross blades with someone for this long.

If you have his type of natural ability even with a superior opponent or against high numbers he will catch up in no time and overtake them.

You seem to like the sword.

Only in that, its my only redeeming feature.

Because of his ability, Ray would not have been blessed with a worthy rival until now. Everyone would have been worthless to him. Theres nothing more boring than that.

I understand your feelings well.

I feel like I understand the feelings of Arnos-kun as well.

Fumu. What is this feeling?

Even though our swords are being swung at full power the inside of my chest is hot.

This is the first time.

Is it because you dont have to compete for your life in this age?

Shall we end this soon?

Ray completely wards off my branch with perfect skill and send the tip of his sword towards my throat.

Fuuu!!

He released a thrust that he hadnt used at all until now.

As soon as I tried to parry it the orbit of the thrust changed and he pierced my branch.

If I push or pull it will probably be broken.

..Its here.!!

The orbit of the thrust changes again and Ray cuts the branch.

I determined the timing and pushed the branch upwards as he started to cut.

The tip of his sword breaks and flies off while at the same time half of my branch fell to the ground.

I thrust the shortened branch at Rays head.

Fumu. As you declared. I really didnt think you could cut my weapon.

.Its still my loss however. Not only was my sword broken by a branch I was also stabbed in the end.

Ray dropped his broken sword on the ground and raised his hands.

Can I say something strange?

Lets hear it.

I felt it while we were exchanging blows. It doesnt feel like this is the first time weve met.

Its possible. We may have met two thousand years ago. I knew a man like you as well.

Ray looks at me with interest in his eyes.

Ray. If I told you I was the Demon King of Tyranny would you believe it?

I dont know, but with your power, it does make me wonder.

Is he someone whos reincarnated? I cant say for definite, but I feel like I know Ray well.

By the way. Because I lost, can I not join Arnos-kuns group?

I reincarnated on purpose. Theres no need for me to remain a prisoner of the past.

Its Arnos.

Nn?

The man who can exchange swords equally with me doesnt need to add kun to the end of my name. Its embarrassing.

As Ray first did to me I presented him my right hand and asked for a handshake.

Arnos then.

Ray takes my hand and firmly shakes it.

Ill win next time.

Likewise, and I wont let you break my sword next time.

He smiles his refreshing smile and I laugh.

I looked behind that refreshing smile and saw a huge zone of desolation that was formerly the location of the demon tree forest.